Very nice! I've not had any turn that color but did have some that was completely black from being under water for 100 years.

Making the pommel extend out from the hilt is a very nice touch. Well done!

Gary

Lin

Each part complements the other. Sweet.

Anthony

Thank you gentlemen.

At the risk of sounding pretentious......

Lin you know I love your work. This knife has so many great elements. The blade is truly beautiful. The spacer with your "new" intermediate forging looks great. The sculpted handle makes me want to pick it up. The guard, well I'm sorry, but it doesn't bake my brownies. It looks out of place to me. Just my opinion, but I feel comfortable voicing it here.

Any chance we can get a pic of the pommel and finial? I'm also really curious about the finish on the cap.

It's ok Joshua. I'm out on the edge of what's normal when I make something like this. I expect some folks to not like it.

Your close-ups confirm just how much time & effort went into this one. Thanks for taking the time to share it with us.

Yes, time, effort, and skill!

Well done Lin.

Thanks guys.

That cap and finial is aces. What are the materials and finish on the cap?

Thanks for fixing that photo Dan.

Joshua, I forged the piece so it has that texture. I then applied linseed oil when it was cooling down from the last cycle. I applied it with a rag at about 500-600 degrees. It sizzled and darkened it, creating a "varnish".

This photo is a dry fit, the pencil mark is still on the wood here.

We have used that linseed oil finish on several art and home furnishing pieces. Sometimes it leaves gold and yellow highlights.

So the cap fits over the end of the handle? Is it pinned in some way so it doesn't spin? Or does the pressure of the finial keep it stable enough?

The cap does not fit over the end but has that appearance, such a an acorn cap. There is alignment pins to keep it in place.

Lin you continue to inspire.

Thanks.